🔥 BBQ Cauliflower Steaks (UK Recipe): Smoky, Plant-Based & Summer-Ready

🇬🇧 Introduction: A Bold Veggie Showstopper

Looking for a satisfying meat-free option for your summer BBQs? BBQ cauliflower steaks are smoky, hearty, and utterly delicious. Thick cauliflower slices are brushed with bold marinades, chargrilled to perfection, and finished with herby sauces or zesty toppings. Whether you’re catering to vegans, vegetarians, or flexitarians, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser on the grill.

1. Why BBQ Cauliflower Steaks?

• ✅ Vegan & gluten-free by nature
• ✅ Budget-friendly BBQ option
• ✅ Absorbs marinades beautifully
• ✅ Satisfying texture that holds up to grilling
• ✅ A great alternative to meat or halloumi

2. Choosing & Preparing the Cauliflower

🥦 Pick a good one:

• Choose a large, firm cauliflower head
• Remove outer leaves and trim base slightly
• Keep core intact to hold steaks together

🔪 Cutting Guide:

• Slice into 2–3 cm thick steaks vertically from top to base
• You’ll get 2–3 full “steaks” per head; use remaining florets for side dishes or skewers

3. Marinade Options (Pick Your Flavour)

🔥 A) Smoky Paprika BBQ Marinade

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp maple syrup or brown sugar
• Salt & pepper
  ➡️ Brush over both sides for a deep BBQ taste

🌶️ B) Harissa-Lemon Glaze

• 1 tbsp harissa paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp cumin
  ➡️ Ideal for spice lovers!

🍋 C) Garlic & Herb Baste

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic (crushed)
• Chopped fresh parsley, thyme & lemon zest
  ➡️ Light and summery

4. How to Cook on the BBQ (or Grill)

🧑‍🍳 Method:

1. Preheat your BBQ (medium-high heat)
2. Brush both sides of steaks with your chosen marinade
3. Place directly on the grill or use a veggie grill tray
4. Cook for 4–5 mins each side until charred, tender & golden
5. Baste again while cooking for maximum flavour

No BBQ? Use a griddle pan or oven grill at 200°C (fan) for a similar effect

5. Serving Suggestions

• 🌿 Top with chimichurri or salsa verde for herby punch
• 🥗 Serve alongside couscous, grilled corn, or flatbreads
• 🍋 Squeeze with fresh lemon or lime
• 🌱 Sprinkle toasted seeds or dukkah for crunch
• 🥒 Add yoghurt, tahini or mint dressing for contrast

6. Variations to Try

7. Pro BBQ Tips for Success

• Oil the grill to prevent sticking
• Don’t flip too soon—let it sear and develop grill marks
• Baste during cooking for extra flavour
• Use a spatula + tongs combo to keep steaks intact
• Grill florets separately to reduce waste and serve as a side

8. FAQs – BBQ Cauliflower Steaks

Q1: Can I prep cauliflower steaks in advance?
Yes—cut and marinate up to 1 day ahead. Store in the fridge in an airtight container.

Q2: How do I stop them falling apart?
Keep the core intact and handle carefully with tongs/spatula.

Q3: What if I don’t have a BBQ?
Use a griddle pan, oven grill, or air fryer with great results.

Q4: Are they filling enough for a main?
Absolutely! Especially when paired with grains, sauces or protein sides.

Q5: Can I make them spicy?
Yes—add chilli flakes, hot sauce or harissa to the marinade.

Q6: What about leftovers?
Slice them up and use in wraps, salads, or Buddha bowls the next day.

Q7: Is this suitable for children?
Yes—just tone down spice and serve with mild dip or yoghurt.

Q8: Can I freeze them?
Not recommended cooked. You can freeze raw steaks, but they may be softer when thawed.

Q9: Is it vegan?
Yes—just check marinades and avoid dairy-based toppings like feta unless desired.

Q10: Gluten-free?
Yes—as long as all condiments used are certified gluten-free.

9. Quick Recipe Snapshot (Serves 2–3)

Ingredients:

• 1 large cauliflower
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper

Steps:

1. Slice cauliflower into thick steaks
2. Mix marinade & brush on both sides
3. BBQ 4–5 mins per side until charred and tender
4. Baste again, finish with herbs or sauces
5. Serve with sides or in wraps

🌟 Conclusion

BBQ cauliflower steaks are the ultimate plant-based centrepiece—smoky, satisfying, and endlessly customisable. Whether you go for bold spices or bright herbs, they’ll hold their own on any summer menu. Serve with zingy dressings, fresh sides, and you’ve got a meat-free BBQ hit that’ll win over everyone at the table.